While I don't seem to be able to remember the simple task of picking up a birthday card when I'm in town, I do remember other things.
I remember your patience when I was growing up. I remember a soft-spoken woman who would no sooner yell than she would go shopping naked. Someone who always gave the benefit of the doubt and had the greatness of heart to always forgive.
I can't seem to go into my garden without thinking of you. I look at my carrots and think of you transplanting carrots instead of thinning them. I see my raspberry bushes and strawberry plants and I remember happy summer afternoons with you picking berries. In my herb garden, two delightful peonies bob their heads in the breeze. A gift from you to encourage me on my way, they always make me smile because I remember the incredible lady who gave them to me.
I remember you always seemed most content when doing quiet things. More often than not these activities were for your family. Whether it was sewing or planting; collecting pictures or picking out special gifts, you made every chore a pleasant activity. Nothing was, "I have to do this", it was "I want to do this because it will make someone happy." I think of you often while I go about doing my work in the house. I feel contented amd fullfilled because I learnt from you that everything is worth something if it's done with an unselfish heart.
So, Incredible You, don't ever think I don't remember or I don't care, or that you're not worth a thought. You are, in fact, my inspiration and my strength. Without being boisterous or loud, you speak strongly and determinedly through your actions and you beliefs. What I remember most is you never gave up on me. And I really don't know where I'd be without you.
So here’s to you, Special Lady, on your birthday. May you have the most wonderful of days and enjoy yourself fully. I don’t know of anyone else more deserving.
Happy Birthday Mom
